Nigeria’s electoral umpire and the police have raised fresh concerns over the growing wave of early campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, warned that political parties, aspirants, and their supporters are already engaging in premature campaign activities, in clear breach of the Electoral Act 2022. He described the trend as a “disturbing violation” of democratic norms, noting that it undermines the commission’s ability to monitor campaign spending and ensure a level playing field.
Under Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act, campaigns are not permitted until 150 days before polling day and must end 24 hours before voting begins. However, Yakubu lamented that political actors have resorted to outdoor advertising, rallies, media promotions, and billboard campaigns long before INEC has even released the official election timetable. He added that while the law prescribes a fine of up to ₦500,000 for campaigns within 24 hours of voting, there are currently no sanctions for parties that flout the 150-day rule, leaving the commission unable to enforce discipline.
Speaking at a roundtable on premature campaigns in Abuja, Yakubu revealed that INEC is already engaging with the National Assembly to amend the law and close the loopholes. He said the commission has also invited the Senate and House committees on electoral matters to consider actionable reforms that will introduce penalties for early campaigns. Regulatory bodies such as the National Broadcasting Commission, the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria, and the Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria were also present at the forum to deliberate on practical solutions.
Former INEC Chairman, Prof. Attahiru Jega, echoed the concerns, urging stricter penalties and clearer definitions of campaign offences. He warned that third-party groups often act on behalf of political parties and candidates to mount billboards and sponsor media promotions well before the official campaign period, creating unfair advantages and heating up the polity. Jega insisted that both candidates and their parties should be held responsible for such violations.
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, also weighed in, stressing that the police would continue to enforce all electoral laws passed by the legislature. He, however, questioned whether campaign timing rules remain relevant in today’s fast-evolving media environment. Still, he affirmed the police’s constitutional duty to maintain order and provide security during the electioneering process.
Stakeholders warned that unchecked early campaigns are distracting elected officials from governance and increasing political tensions years before the polls. They stressed that without reform, Nigeria risks entrenching a political culture where parties are perpetually in campaign mode rather than focusing on service delivery. With the National Assembly already reviewing the Electoral Act, observers are hopeful that fresh amendments will introduce stiffer sanctions to curb premature campaigning and safeguard the credibility of the 2027 elections.
